Abstract

Objective: Eclampsia frequently complicates pregnancy, which in turn affects the placenta's macroarchitecture and functions as well as the prenatal health of both the mother and the unborn child. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the morphological changes in the placenta among eclamptic and normotensive pregnant mothers.

Methods: A Case control study was performed. Detailed clinical history was taken and placenta were collected from both 33 eclamptic and 33 normotensive mothers delivered in the labour room or operation theatre. Gross morphological analysis was performed. Results were noted and statistically analysed.

Results: The average weight, diameter, placental thickness and number of cotyledons were 427.88±65.88 grams, 15.79±1.56 centimetre, 1.87±0.50 centimetre and 11.97±2.73 in patients of eclampsia and 502.57±64.12 grams, 16.77±1.64 centimetre, 2.15±0.35 centimetre and 16.64±3.21 in normotensive patients respectively. The average weight, diameter, placental thickness, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, number of cotyledons and presence of retroplacental hematoma in cases versus controls was found to be statistically significant. The variation in shape of placenta and umbilical cord insertion was statistically insignificant.

Conclusion: Effects of eclampsia in pregnancy are reflected in gross findings of placenta, which may contribute to the further management of mother and baby.

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